COVER STORY
Aon ’ s Peter Webster Talks Diversity , Equity , Inclusion
Aon is an ardent , progressive voice in the business community .
By Diane C . Walsh Contributing Editor
Aon showed its commitment to a diverse
and resilient workforce by announcing it will invest $ 30 million in an apprenticeship program over the next five years .
The global professional services firm launched the initiative in Chicago and now plans its expansion to Houston , Minneapolis , New York , Philadelphia , San Francisco and Washington , D . C . Its goal is to lead the development of a nationwide network of employers to create 10,000 apprenticeships across the nation by 2030 .
No one could be prouder of the program than Peter Webster , the resident managing director of Aon ’ s risk and health division in New Jersey , who also sits on the board of directors of the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey . A Garden State native , Webster oversees a diverse team of 54 . He is celebrating 20 years with Aon , which has gained a reputation as a leading professional services firm that provides a broad range of risk , retirement and health solutions .
Webster ’ s climb up the corporate ladder did not go the traditional route . A gay , African American man , Webster said in his youth he was painfully shy and insecure — so much so that he abandoned hopes of becoming an auto designer because he was too scared to move to Detroit for the schooling .
Instead , he accepted odd jobs . One led him to driving business executives . He recalled seeing an African American man wearing a handsome three-piece suit , carrying a briefcase ,
Aon ’ s goal is to create 10,000 apprenticeships by 2030 . 40 COMMERCE www . commercemagnj . com
" Aon ' s culture is comprised of four key pillars : Impact , People , Opportunities and Support ."
confidently walk into a corporate headquarters . “ I decided I wanted to be like that man one day ,” says Webster .
He pursued his dream working on temp jobs and learning the industry from seasoned professionals , until finally he landed a position with Aon . Webster overcame his insecurities “ by being a good client manager , and he realized , “ If I could make someone happy , I felt fulfilled .”
Webster believes Aon ’ s apprenticeship program will “ give more people like me — who have the grit , grizzle , innovation and desire — a chance to succeed .” The program offers apprentices permanent jobs with competitive salaries , benefits and financial support for the cost of education . The apprenticeship positions are available not only in the insurance lines , but other sectors as well , such as human resources and technology .
The way Aon has distinguished itself as an ardent , progressive voice in the business community further amplifies Webster ’ s pride and commitment to the company . He noted that in the face of the nation ’ s upheaval over the tragic death of George Floyd , Aon CEO Greg Case quickly released a statement resolutely declaring that black lives matter . Case also initiated a series
Aon Resident Managing Director Peter Webster
of “ intentional conversations ,” Webster explains , to transform the controversy into a “ learning experience ” that could expose any microaggressions and rid the company of their effects . Webster has moderated some of these discussions , which are open to the entire workforce .
In its tribute to Black History Month , Aon is developing themes to be discussed each week in February . The opening session will be a year in review and remembrance , followed by
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